Things To Do
in Kandiyankovil
Kandiyankovil is a small village located in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. The village is known for its historic Kandiyankovil Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounding the temple are lush green fields and coconut groves, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop.
The village is also home to a close-knit community that celebrates traditional festivals with much fervor and joy.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the serene local temples, enjoying the peace and spirituality they offer. Take a leisurely walk around the village to soak in the morning atmosphere.
Visit the traditional markets and engage with local artisans to appreciate their crafts. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby eatery featuring South Indian cuisine.
Relax by watching the sunset at a nearby hillock, giving you a breathtaking view of the surroundings. End the day enjoying a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.
Kickstart your day with an invigorating hike through the lush landscapes surrounding Kandiyankovil. Look out for native wildlife and diverse flora along the way.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the beautiful scenery. After lunch, explore nearby waterfalls for a refreshing experience.
Return to town and take a stroll along the riverside, enjoying the calming sound of flowing water. Dine at a riverside café, savoring local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals.
- Scenic landscapes and natural beauty in the surrounding areas.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Agricultural opportunities due to fertile land.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Lack of educational and healthcare facilities.
- Transportation can be challenging.
- Economic opportunities might be scarce for youth.
Best Activities in Kandiyankovil
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats with guided treks that offer breathtaking views and the chance to see unique flora and fauna.
Kandiyankovil is home to diverse bird species, making it an ideal location for bird watching enthusiasts to observe and photograph various birds in their natural habitat.
Enjoy peaceful nature walks in the surrounding hills and forests, allowing you to connect with nature and appreciate the local environment.
Experience the thrill of camping under the stars in designated campsites, where you can enjoy bonfires and the beauty of the night sky.
Participate in outdoor yoga and meditation sessions amidst nature, providing a calming experience that enhances relaxation and mindfulness.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kandiyankovil with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kandiyankovil
Visit one of these nice places.
This ancient temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing intricate architecture and scenic backgrounds.
A picturesque spot located nearby, Vellai Kokkad is known for its serene environment and offers panoramic views ideal for photography.
The waterfalls provide a stunning backdrop, especially during the monsoon season when the flow is at its peak, offering great photo opportunities.
This location features beautiful landscapes and charming rural scenes, making it a great place for capturing the essence of local life.
A nearby village with hills that offer breathtaking views of the surroundings, perfect for sunset photography.
The lush fields and rural scenery provide an authentic backdrop for picturesque photos, especially during harvest season.
Food in Kandiyankovil
Kandiyankovil Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish that features fresh fish cooked in a tangy and spicy coconut-based gravy. Enjoy this dish at local seafood restaurants and food stalls near the fishing harbors.
Must-Try!
A fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meats, spices, and saffron, creating a mouthwatering aroma and taste. Look for this dish at traditional eateries and local family-run restaurants.
These savory dumplings made from fermented rice batter and seasoned with herbs and spices are a popular snack in Kandiyankovil. They are typically found at street food stalls and local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kandiyankovil better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, spices, and street food. Wander through the vibrant stalls to sample a variety of street food delights such as vada, dosa, and bhajis.
Explore the charming streets of Chettinadu to discover an array of street food stalls offering regional delicacies like parotta, kothu parotta, and freshly made dosas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kandiyankovil, like many places in India, has its own set of cultural traditions and practices. It is important to acknowledge and respect local customs, such as greeting elders with a respectful gesture like 'Namaste' or 'Vanakkam'.
When in Kandiyankovil, dressing modestly is crucial. Wearing traditional attire, or at least ensuring that your clothing covers shoulders and knees, is appreciated as it shows respect for local values and norms.
Understanding local etiquette, such as not using the left hand for handing or receiving items, being mindful of personal space, and taking shoes off before entering homes or places of worship, is essential to demonstrate respect and sensitivity towards community norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kandiyankovil with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kandiyankovil
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kandiyankovil, tipping is not a widespread practice as it is in many western countries. Tipping may occur in some situations, particularly in restaurants or for services such as hospitality and transportation, but it is generally seen as optional rather than mandatory. Local customs may influence whether a small tip is given as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payment practices in Kandiyankovil primarily involve cash transactions. While digital payments and mobile wallets are gaining popularity, especially among the younger population, many local businesses still rely on cash due to the preference of customers and lower transaction fees. In markets and small shops, bargaining is common, and final prices are often negotiated. In restaurants, it's typical to pay directly at the counter.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kandiyankovil.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Kandiyankovil due to the pleasant weather. Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Expect clear skies and comfortable conditions.
Summer can be quite hot in Kandiyankovil, with temperatures often rising above 35°C (95°F). Travelers should expect warm weather and should stay hydrated. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times for outdoor excursions.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Kandiyankovil. While the landscape becomes lush and green, traveling can be affected by the weather. Visitors should expect humidity and should be prepared for occasional flooding.
Kandiyankovil at Night
Hiking in Kandiyankovil
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Vembanad Lake, this sanctuary offers beautiful walking trails and scenic views, perfect for hiking and bird-watching.
A UNESCO-listed site, this area has numerous trekking trails that allow you to explore rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Located further north, this trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and unique ecosystems, ideal for adventurous hikers.
Known as the 'High Wavy Mountains', this area features trekking routes with lush greenery and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Western Ghats have numerous accessible trails with various difficulty levels, appealing to all hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kandiyankovil through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kandiyankovil by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 80 kilometers from Kandiyankovil, serving various domestic and international flights.
Located around 130 kilometers from Kandiyankovil, this airport offers limited international services alongside domestic flights.
About 190 kilometers away, Coimbatore International Airport serves a range of international and domestic destinations.
Approximately 220 kilometers from Kandiyankovil, it is one of the largest airports in India and provides many international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Kandiyankovil, comprising a majority of the local population.
A significant minority group in the area, often associated with agricultural communities.
A prominent religious community in Kandiyankovil, contributing significantly to the local culture.
Includes various groups traditionally disadvantaged in the socio-economic context.
A category that includes several communities with diverse backgrounds and professions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Kandiyankovil, with many locals playing and following national leagues.
Football has a strong following, with many young players participating in local tournaments and leagues.
Kabaddi is frequently played in the region, known for its traditional roots and community participation.
Badminton is a widely played sport in schools and local clubs, attracting both genders and various age groups.
Athletics events such as running and relay races are popular, especially among schools and colleges in Kandiyankovil.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kandiyankovil.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants offer an extensive array of vegetarian dishes, including dosas, idlis, sambar, and a variety of vegetable curries, ensuring that vegetarians can indulge in Kandiyankovil's culinary delights.
While dairy is often used in South Indian cuisine, some restaurants in Kandiyankovil offer vegan-friendly dishes such as coconut-based curries and stir-fried vegetable dishes. It's recommended to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Rice is a staple ingredient in Kandiyankovil's cuisine, making it easier to find gluten-free options such as dosas, idlis, and rice-based dishes. However, it's advisable to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure a gluten-free meal.